Online Reporter
Judith Phiri
Zimpapers Business Hub
National trade development and promotion body, ZimTrade, will host the 2026 edition of the Shop@Zim Buyers’ Forum and the Annual Exporter of the Year Awards from November 2 to 6, 2026, in Bulawayo and Harare.
The platforms provide a platform for engagement between Zimbabwean exporters, international buyers and policymakers.
ZimTrade chief executive officer (CEO), Mr Allan Majuru, said in a statement that the programme will bridge the gap between local businesses and export markets, enhance understanding of international market trends and foster connections.
“The event is designed to facilitate a deeper understanding of global market dynamics, connect Zimbabwean companies with buyers, and align national export strategies with opportunities for growth and value addition,” he said.
Buyers from Africa, Europe, and Asia will participate in this year’s events, strengthening bilateral business relationships and opening avenues for long-term trade partnerships with local suppliers.
Mr Majuru also highlighted the importance of the engagements, explaining that the decision to structure tailored buyer sessions followed positive feedback and tangible results in previous programmes.
He said this year they are expanding the physical reach of the buyers to both major cities to allow for more robust interaction and strategic planning for exporters across regions.
“This format allows for greater participation and more tailored interactions, resulting in partnerships, business deals, and the identification of new markets for Zimbabwean products.”
This year’s Shop@Zim Buyers Forum will kick off in Bulawayo on November 2. The forum will give local companies in the southern region an opportunity to pitch their products and services directly to selected regional and international buyers.
Buyer engagements will then shift to Harare on November 4, where the second Shop@Zim Buyers’ Forum will take place.
“The week’s activities will conclude on November 6 with the prestigious ZimTrade Exporter of the Year Awards in Harare.
“This gala event will celebrate Zimbabwean companies that have demonstrated excellence in exporting and honours businesses that have adopted best practices in growing their international markets,” he added.
